Concerta and Adderall are prescription medications used to treat ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. These CNS stimulant medications are similar in many ways but with some differences. When someone takes Concerta and Adderall, it activates the brain areas responsible for paying attention and focusing. The generic form of Concerta is methylphenidate, whereas Adderall is a mixture of four amphetamine salts.
Learn more about Concerta and Adderall in this blog. But before that, visit Therapy Fleet now and connect with our online mental healthcare professionals to get a diagnosis.
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Concerta vs. Adderall – At a Glance
Both Concerta and Adderall are used to manage ADHD symptoms in children and adults. These central nervous system stimulants are schedule II controlled drugs, which have some severe side effects, lead to withdrawal symptoms, and have a high potential for abuse. Still, regardless, they are often the first line of medicines for ADHD treatment.
For this reason, it is misused by college students for recreational purposes at college campuses. Thus, it is not suitable for people with a history of substance use disorder.
Concerta vs. Adderall – Dosage and Forms
Concerta and Adderall are both CNS stimulants used to treat ADHD in adults. When taken, these drugs reduce the activity of the brain, which diminishes impulsive actions in ADHD individuals. Concerta comes only as extended-release tablets, and Adderall is available in both extended-release and immediate-release forms. The immediate-release version releases the drug immediately into the body, while the extended-release version (capsules) releases a small amount throughout the day.
Initially, your doctor will prescribe the immediate-release form; in this case, 2 or 3 doses are taken daily. Finally, they will shift to extended-release tablets.
Concerta
Concerta is taken once a day, probably in the morning. Do not crush or chew the pill. Swallow the pill whole. The initial dosage is 18mg for children 6 to 12 years of age, 18 or 36 mg for teens, and 18 or 36 mg for adults. The maximum dosage for children is 54mg and 72 mg for adults and teens.
Adderall
The initial dosage for ADHD in kids is 5mg, once or twice daily. The initial dosage for adults is 5mg, once and twice. The dose slowly increases as the body responds to the drug. The maximum dose is 30mg for kids and 60mg for adults.
It comes in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. Read more on signs your Adderall for ADHD is too low. Read the ultimate guide to normal Adderall dosage for adults and children.
Both Concerta and Adderall are controlled substances like Vyvanse. If your healthcare provider recommends either of these, they will monitor you closely. They lead to dependence, and if you stop taking the drug abruptly, it will cause withdrawal effects.
It is worth noting that extended-release methylphenidate comes under different names, like Ritalin LA, Azstarys Quillichew ER, and many more.
How to Take Concerta vs Adderall?
Take the medicine as directed by the doctor, and swallow the tablet. You can take it with/without food. It is always better to take the drug with breakfast to minimize the side effects. If you cannot swallow Adderall, open the capsule and mix the granules with food. Do not chew or crush.
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Serious Side Effects of Adderall / Concerta
All ADHD medications have some side effects. In the case of Adderall and Concerta, some are serious, like slowing children’s growth. If your child is on these drugs, the doctor will monitor his height and weight throughout the treatment. In case of adverse reactions, they will be put off the drugs. And other non-stimulants would be recommended.
The side effects fade with time, but if they don’t, call your doctor and seek medical advice. They may adjust the dose or shift to other treatment options.
Some potential side effects of Concerta and Adderall are;
- Sweating
- Irritability
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach
- Dry mouth and
- Dizziness
Serious Side Effects of Both;
- Psychosis (more common with Adderall)
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Cold or numb fingers/toes
- Shortness of breath
- Increased violence
- Depression
- Hearing voices or hallucinating
- Slowed growth in children
- Effect on personality
Note: Concerta causes painful erections in some male that lasts for a couple of hours
Avoid Concerta vs. Adderall: Drug Interactions
Each drug has cautions, interactions, risks, and side effects. You should know that not all medicines are for all. Certain health conditions make it difficult for the drug to work, or the drug itself could prove to be dangerous with that certain health disease.
If your doctor prescribed you either Adderall or Concerta, make sure you consider reading the following points thoroughly before starting the treatment plan for ADHD.
Stay away from Concerta vs Adderall if;
- You suffer from anxiety.
- Have glaucoma
- Are hypersensitive to the ingredients
- Use monoamine inhibitor MAOI antidepressants.
Note– tell your doctor beforehand if you’ve been on MAOIs (because you must wait two weeks after taking the last dose).
Avoid Concerta if you have;
- Tourette’s syndrome or a family history
- Motor tic
Avoid Adderall if you have;
- High blood pressure
- Hypothyroidism
- Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
- advanced arteriosclerosis
- a history of drug addiction or misuse
Both Concerta and Adderall affect the heart rate and blood pressure. People with heart conditions should be very cautious when using Adderall vs Concerta because these drugs cause sudden death in some people with heart disease. Your healthcare professional will check your heart function and blood pressure before and throughout the treatment.
Do not use these medicines if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Concerta vs Adderall are classified as category C drugs, meaning they were harmful in animal studies, but not much research was done in humans.
Note– Use all prescription stimulants as directed by the doctor. Do not use Concerta vs Adderall in higher doses, as they are controlled substances. Keep all prescription medication away from children and young adults as substance abuse from them is high.
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Cost & Insurance Coverage- Concerta vs Adderall
The brand names Concerta & Adderall are more expensive than the generic versions. In comparison, Concerta is more costly than Adderall. For the final costs, check with your provider. However, if you are paying without insurance, the total costs would depend on;
- The brand or generic
- Number of pills
- The dosage
- Immediate-release or extended-release
Adderall XR and Adderall in the generic versions have been in shortage for a year. Finding them would be tough, making it difficult for the patients to choose between Concerta generic or brand name Adderall.
The Bottom Line
Concerta vs Adderall work similarly when used for treating ADHD in adults. There are more similarities than differences. Which one is for you depends on how your body takes each drug. If your mental healthcare provider prescribed either of these drugs, make sure you clear up our concerns before starting the treatment plan. Be vocal, and ask about anything that’s bothering you. Make sure you share your present medical condition with them.
Finally, know that doctors know best; if they prescribe you a drug, they know what’s better for you. Do not doubt their judgment and give the medicine time to show its effect.
In contrast to medicines, your doctor could recommend behavioural therapy, like ABA therapy, and some over-the-counter supplements Some people use caffeine to manage the symptoms of ADHD. There are some CBT exercises for ADHD.
Read more about the best ADHD medications for anxiety
Medical Disclaimer:
At Therapy Fleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to Therapy Fleet’s qualified staff.
Mental struggle is not a failure, but a battleground where we redefine our limits. It’s in these moments of tension that we discover our true strength.
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FAQs
1. Which is more effective, Concerta vs. Adderall?
We cannot tell which drug is superior because the drug has different effects on each individual. In terms of potency, Adderall is more effective, yet it has more serious side effects.
A drug might initially work for someone but lose effectiveness as the treatment progresses. So, the best medication is the one that suits you. Always trust your doctor’s recommendation and use the drug as directed.
2. Which is more affordable, Conce, RTA, or Adderall?
The brand names Concerta and Adderall are expensive. You can opt for the generic version for both. Generally, the generic form of Adderall is cheaper than Concerta. And even the Adderall extended-release is more affordable than Concerta.
3. What is the peak time for Concerta, and how long does it stay in the system?
When the drug administration takes place, Concerta reaches its peak in about 6 to 8 hours and starts to work within an hour. It stays in the body for about 12 hours; thus, a single dose is required daily.
Sources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/category-c-drugs
